CVI, or chronic venous insufficiency, is a condition where the veins are unable to return all the blood from the legs to the heart. CVI and lymphedema are similar in that both conditions can cause swelling of the feet and lower legs.

CVI and lymphedema can differ in their symptoms and treatment, or they can be combined in a condition known as phlebo-lymphedema or phlebolymphedema.

Both are chronic and progressive conditions that should be treated to prevent dangerous infections and to minimize swelling and degenerative tissue changes that can result in disability.